Tetradrachm of Antiochos VII Eurgetes of Syria c. 138

Editor: This is a Tetradrachm of Antiochos VII Eurgetes of Syria. The silver coin depicts a regal portrait. What strikes you about the imagery used here? Curator: The imagery speaks volumes about power and legacy. The portrait on one side, likely Antiochos himself, recalls Alexander the Great with the flowing hair, evoking a deliberate connection. The other side presents a deity, likely a Hellenistic version of Victory or a local goddess, signifying divine favor and prosperity. Editor: So, it's all about projecting power through recognizable symbols? Curator: Precisely. Coins like these were not just currency; they were tools of propaganda, disseminating a specific image of the ruler and his kingdom, ensuring continuity and authority. The symbols used would resonate deeply with the people, reinforcing cultural memory and loyalty. Editor: That's fascinating. I hadn't considered the psychological impact of something as simple as a coin. Curator: It's a potent reminder that images carry weight. This coin reveals the careful construction of identity and power in the ancient world.